Cancer…Times Two…My Story
Darryl A. Salisbury
For many months prior to my diagnosis with prostate cancer, I had
been ignoring my urinary problems. As the advertisements on
television were stating, “If you are urinating more frequently and not
emptying your bladder each time, you may have an enlarged
prostate.” The ad goes on to allude to the possibility of cancer and
that a doctor should be consulted. Fearing the worst, I put off the
doctor visit until I finally felt it was the only viable solution. A
biopsy was performed and the results were reported to me while I
was on a bus trip with international students in New York City. My
cell phone rang early one morning and the news was given to me by
the doctor. I was devastated. I shared the information with my friend
and guide in charge of the trip, Rev. Ron DeYoung. His comfort
coupled with my strong Christian faith carried me through the initial
shock. Further consultations ended up with some choices. After
weeks of prayerful consideration, research, and even consultation
with my heart doctor, an operation was decided upon.
I dreaded the operation, but my wife, WiSeon, was there every step of
the way, along with my youngest daughter, Shona. The comforting
hand of God was there as well. The encouragement and support gave
me a strong will to overcome all odds. Now, some four years hence, I
remain cancer free in this area.
About a year after the operation, I noticed a small sore on my left
arm. It never seemed to heal. Again, having learned many things
about cancer, I became quite concerned and this time went to a
dermatologist without hesitation. A biopsy was done and I was called
back in for the report. The doctor looked at me and the sore and
stated that I was a guy and that probably most of my life I had my left
arm on the window sill, window down, of my car while driving
around. Of course! How did he know? Basal cell melanoma was the
diagnosis. Here I was again fighting another cancer battle. The spot
was removed and stitches were taken to help the area heal.
Now some three years later, I have not had any recurrences of this
type of cancer either. With God as my guide, and WiSeon and Shona
as my main support people, I have overcome two major obstacles in
life. I am a proud cancer survivor not only once, but twice.
CANCER SUCKS - CHOOSE HOPE.
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